Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment Valley Park, MO. After a rotator cuff tear or shoulder injury, you’re probably facing daily difficulties that affect your ability to work, exercise, or live your life comfortably. At Axes Physical Therapy, we understand how a rotator cuff injury can affect your life and well-being. Our expert physical therapy team in Valley Park, MO is here to provide the personalized plan necessary to feel like your old self again. With our comprehensive rotator cuff tear treatment, we will help you return to the activities that you love most, whether it’s being active, working, playing with your kids, or simply living pain-free.

You can visit any of our locations for a free injury screening, request an appointment online, or call the Axes location nearest you to start your path to recovery.

About Rotator Cuff Tears

The rotator cuff represents a crucial part of the shoulder’s anatomy, comprising four muscles and their associated tendons: the supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, and subscapularis. These muscles work together to stabilize the shoulder joint and provide for a wide range of motions, including lifting, rotating, and reaching.

Types of Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff tears differ in severity, determining treatment options and recovery time. The two main types of tears are:

1. Partial Tears: These occur when the tendon becomes frayed or damaged but not completely severed. While still painful and limiting, partial tears generally respond favorably to conservative treatments like physical therapy.
2. Full-Thickness Tears: In a full-thickness tear, the tendon becomes detached from the bone, often demanding more intensive treatment. These injuries may cause significant weakness in the shoulder and are more prone to require surgery. An incomplete full-thickness tear happens when there is still some of the tendon attached to the bone. A complete full-thickness tear occurs when the tendon fully detaches from the bone.

Common Causes of Rotator Cuff Tears

Being aware of the common causes of rotator cuff tears can help you prevent injury or recognize issues sooner:

• Acute Injuries: Quick, forceful actions, such as lifting a heavy object or falling on an outstretched arm, may result in an acute tear.
• Chronic Degeneration: As time passes, repetitive stress from activities including painting, lifting, or sports can wear down the tendons, resulting in a tear.
• Age-Related Wear and Tear: With aging, the tendons naturally weaken, raising the likelihood of tears, especially in individuals over 40.

Symptoms of a Torn Rotator Cuff

Identifying the symptoms of a rotator cuff tear plays a vital role in seeking timely treatment. Frequent symptoms are:

• Continuous shoulder discomfort, especially at night or when lying on the affected side.
• Weakness in the shoulder, making it hard to lift or rotate the arm.
• Restricted movement, notably when lifting the arm or reaching above your head.
• A crackling sensation or a popping sound when moving the shoulder.

Recognizing these symptoms and the underlying anatomy helps clarify why prompt treatment is important to prevent further damage and for recovering normal shoulder function.

Diagnosis of Rotator Cuff Tears in Valley Park, MO

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential in effectively managing a rotator cuff tear. The faster you identify the issue, the better the chances of a full recovery with conservative treatment. Should you already have a diagnosis by a physician, we’ll form a team with you and your Valley Park, MO physician to ensure you receive the best possible treatment and outcome possible.

Feel free to visit any Axes location for a free injury screening. We start with a thorough physical examination to check your shoulder’s range of motion, strength, and pain levels. If required, we may refer you for imaging tests like an MRI or ultrasound to get a detailed view of the injury.

The Direct Access Physical Therapy laws in both Missouri and Illinois permit us to evaluate and diagnose you, start your treatment, and have several physical therapy sessions without a prescription from a doctor in Valley Park, MO.

Non-Surgical Rotator Cuff Treatment Options in Valley Park, MO

Rotator cuff tears don’t always require surgery; in many cases, non-surgical treatments can relieve pain effectively and return shoulder function to normal. At Axes Physical Therapy, we focus on personalized, conservative care that focuses on your specific needs.

Valley Park, MO Physical Therapy for Rotator Cuff Tears

Physical therapy is frequently the first approach to rotator cuff treatment. Our therapists develop personalized treatment plans to strengthen the muscles surrounding the shoulder, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. This is how physical therapy helps:

• Strengthening: Targeted workouts to build the muscles supporting the rotator cuff, preventing further injury.
• Mobility Improvement: Stretching routines to increase the range of motion and reduce stiffness.
• Pain Relief: Approaches including manual therapy, ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to reduce pain.

Pain Management Techniques for Rotator Cuff Tears

Proper pain management is important for recovery. According to the severity of your symptoms, we may recommend a combination of:

• Ice and Heat Therapy: Applying ice can decrease inflammation, while heat boosts circulation and eases muscle tension.
• Medications: Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce pain and swelling.
• Corticosteroid Injections: When symptoms are severe, injections could be used to relieve pain and inflammation, even though it’s typically a short-term solution.
• Activity Modification and Rest: Limiting activities that aggravate your shoulder is crucial during the healing process. Our Valley Park, MO physical therapists will advise you on how to alter your daily activities to avoid strain, while still maintaining some level of physical activity to promote healing.

Being consistent is essential in non-surgical treatment. Adhering to your physical therapy regimen, attending all scheduled sessions, and performing prescribed exercises at home are important for your recovery. Our team at Axes is here to support you at every stage, to help you stay on course for a successful recovery.

Surgical Treatment Options for Rotator Cuff Tears in Valley Park, MO

If non-surgical treatments do not provide sufficient relief, or if the rotator cuff tear is significant, surgery may become necessary. Surgical options vary depending on the extent of the tear and the patient’s individual needs. Common procedures include:

• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgery where small instruments are used to repair the tear.
• Open Repair: A traditional surgery for larger or more complex tears.
• Tendon Transfer: Performed when the tendon is too damaged to reattach to the bone.

No matter which surgery is performed, physical therapy plays a critical role before as well as after the procedure. Pre-surgery physical therapy can strengthen the surrounding muscles, while post-surgical rehabilitation is necessary for regaining strength, mobility, and function during recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, we design individualized rehab programs to support a smooth and successful recovery.

Recovery Timeline for Rotator Cuff Tears in Valley Park, MO

Recovery from a rotator cuff tear differs based on whether your injury required surgery or not. For non-surgical treatments, recovery can take a few weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the tear and the consistency of physical therapy. Post-surgical recovery usually requires a longer period, generally 4 to 6 months, slowly returning to full activity.

Sticking to your physical therapy is vital for a successful recovery. At Axes Physical Therapy, our Valley Park, MO physical therapists guide you through a tailored rehabilitation program focused on bringing back strength, flexibility, and mobility. Our therapists provide ongoing support and plan adjustments, ensuring you make steady progress.

To enhance your recovery, it’s essential to adhere to your exercise regimen, go to every therapy session, and adjust your lifestyle as needed to protect your shoulder. Whether you’re recovering from surgery or handling a tear through non-surgical means, our team is here to supporting you in getting the best outcome and get back to your normal routine. We’ll also instruct you in injury prevention techniques so you can remain active without pain.

Why Choose Axes Physical Therapy for Your Rotator Cuff Tear in Valley Park, MO

At Axes Physical Therapy, our team of expert physical therapists focuses on providing customized treatment focused on each patient’s unique needs. With an average of over 15 years of experience, our therapists are adept at guiding Valley Park, MO patients heal from rotator cuff tears and regain their strength and mobility. We prioritize a compassionate, supportive approach, ensuring that every patient feels understood and cared for throughout their recovery journey. Our tailored treatment plans are designed to help you achieve the best possible outcomes and go back to doing what you love.

Call Axes for Physical Therapy in Valley Park, MO

If you are dealing with a rotator cuff tear, don’t hesitate to begin your recovery. Book an appointment with Axes Physical Therapy today and let our expert team craft an individualized treatment plan to get you back to the activities you love. Uncertain whether it’s a tear? Benefit from our free injury screening, so we can evaluate your symptoms and direct you to the best treatment option. Contact the location nearest you to schedule your appointment at one of our convenient locations near Valley Park.

At Axes Physical Therapy, we are devoted to supporting you in overcoming the challenges of a rotator cuff tear and getting back to your daily routine with confidence. Our skilled team gives compassionate, individualized care focused on meeting your unique needs. Whether via non-surgical options or post-surgical rehabilitation, we’ll be here to support you at every stage. Don’t let shoulder pain keep you from living fully—contact us today to begin your journey to recovery.